3 minors charred to death, 1 serious after house catches fire

Three of four siblings were charred to death and the other was seriously injured after fire broke out at their house in the Mizoram-Assam border town of Vairengte, the police said today.

Six-year-old Nuri and her younger brothers - John Lalpekhlua (four) and Jonathan (three) - were burned alive, while their elder sister Lalchhanhimi survived serious burn injuries yesterday, the police said.

The injured is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital, police said.

According to the police, their parents were away when the incident occurred.

The mother reportedly left a burning candle in the childrens' room which is suspected to be the cause of the fire, police said adding further investigation is on in the matter.